US Warns Shippers Against Paying ‘Hormuz Tolls’ to Iran, Cites Sanctions Risk

01/05/2026

WASHINGTON, May 1: The US Treasury has warned global shipping companies against making any payments to Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, cautioning that such transactions, including those disguised as charitable donations could trigger punitive sanctions.

In an advisory issued Friday, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said it is aware of Iranian threats targeting vessels and demands for toll-like payments in exchange for safe transit through the vital shipping corridor.

According to the notice, payment methods may vary widely, including cash transfers, digital assets, informal financial arrangements, or in-kind contributions. It specifically highlighted so-called charitable donations to entities such as the Iranian Red Crescent Society, Bonyad Mostazafan, or even accounts linked to Iranian embassies as potential channels being used.

“OFAC is issuing this alert to warn U.S. and non-U.S. persons about the sanctions risks of making these payments or seeking guarantees from the Iranian regime for safe passage,” the statement said, stressing that the risk applies regardless of how the payment is made.

The warning comes amid reports that Tehran has proposed imposing fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz as part of broader negotiations aimed at ending hostilities with the United States and Israel.

The development coincides with Iran submitting a new proposal for negotiations to Washington through Pakistan mediators, although details of the proposal have not been made public.